Cover photo for John Fredrick Herman Lentz's Obituary
John Fredrick Herman Lentz Profile Photo
1941 John Fredrick Herman Lentz 2023

John Fredrick Herman Lentz

January 9, 1941 — December 7, 2023

East Bethel

John F. Lentz Jr., aged 82, of East Bethel, passed away, leaving behind a legacy filled with a deep love for music and a lifetime of cherished memories. Born to John Fredrick Lentz Sr. and Esther Stuedeman Lentz, he joined his sister Lois Dell Lentz Ardolf in eternal rest.

John is survived by his life partner, Karen Osterhaus; his daughters, Tracy Lentz, and Bridget Anderson; his son, Dana Lentz; and a multitude of other relatives and friends who will forever cherish the time they spent together.

A true musical soul, John dedicated the first four decades of his life to playing the drums in various bands. His rhythmic talents echoed through notable groups such as Mike Waggoner and the Bops, The Night Beats, Gary Neilson and the Night Caps, AFM (Another Find Mess), and "G" Wiz. His performances graced numerous venues, including the illustrious Dick Clark Shower of Stars, the Crystal Coliseum, Excelsior Big Reggie's Dance Hall, and the St. Paul Auditorium Winter Carnival, where his beats resonated with a crowd of 17,000 attendees.

John's passion for music extended to the studio, where he served as a Studio Drummer at Kay Bank Studios for five impactful years. His contributions to the music scene were not only profound but left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of listening to his artistry.

In addition to his musical accomplishments, John's warmth and vibrant spirit touched the lives of everyone around him. His legacy lives on in the memories of family and friends who were fortunate enough to share in his journey.

As we bid farewell to John F. Lentz Jr., we remember a man whose heartbeat was synonymous with the rhythm of life, and whose passion for music will forever resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the melodies of the universe he so adored.

 

A graveside service to honor and remember John F. Lentz Jr. will be held on Thursday, December 14th, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Glen Haven Memorial Gardens, located at 5125 W. Broadway Ave., Crystal. All attendees are kindly requested to gather at the main entrance of the cemetery before proceeding to the gravesite.

Following the service, a Memorial Gathering and luncheon will take place at Big Louie's Bar and Grill, situated at 5216 W. Broadway Ave., Crystal. This will be a time for friends and family to come together, share stories, and celebrate the life of John in a warm and comforting atmosphere.

Your presence and support during this time are deeply appreciated by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to be made in John's memory to a charity of your choice.

May this gathering serve as an opportunity to find solace in each other's company and to reminisce about the extraordinary life of John F. Lentz Jr.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Graveside Service

Thursday, December 14, 2023

2:00 - 2:15 pm (Central time)

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Memorial Gathering and Luncheon

Thursday, December 14, 2023

Starts at 2:30 pm (Central time)

Big Louie's Bar and Grill

5216 W Broadway, Crystal, MN 55429

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